Moss Phlox
Phlox subulata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Moss Phlox is a low-growing evergreen perennial native to eastern and central United States that produces masses of pink, purple, or white flowers in April and May.
Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Moss Phlox as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–6" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AR, CT, DE, GA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Moss phlox is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that forms dense mats of needle-like foliage. In spring, it produces masses of small, colorful flowers that completely blanket the plant for several weeks. This hardy perennial thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil and requires minimal care once established.
Growing Moss Phlox
Grow Moss Phlox in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 4 to 6 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Moss Phlox is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The abundant spring blooms attract bees and butterflies during an important early season nectar period. The dense mat structure can also provide shelter for small beneficial insects.
Common questions
- Where is Moss Phlox native to?
- Phlox subulata is native to 27 states across the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to Georgia and Louisiana, and west to Minnesota and Iowa.
- When does Moss Phlox bloom?
- Moss Phlox typically blooms in April and May, producing dense carpets of five-petaled flowers that nearly cover the foliage during peak bloom.
- What pollinators visit Moss Phlox?
- Moss Phlox attracts various bees and butterflies with its abundant spring flowers, making it valuable for early season pollinator support.
- What growing conditions does Moss Phlox prefer?
- This hardy perennial thrives in full sun to partial sun with well-drained, low to moderate moisture soils. It is drought tolerant once established and spreads to form dense mats.
- Is Moss Phlox toxic to dogs?
- Moss Phlox is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Moss Phlox toxic to cats?
- Moss Phlox is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Moss Phlox toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Moss Phlox as toxic to livestock.
- Is Moss Phlox HOA-friendly?
- Moss Phlox is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Moss Phlox? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz